Marijuana-related stomach disorder can be caused by a number of different factors but is often due to an unhealthy diet. This article discusses how marijuana-related stomach disorders make you feel and how they are often the result of eating too many processed foods and not enough fresh produce. It also provides some solutions for those who suffer from this condition, such as reducing or eliminating cannabis use, changing your diet to one that’s healthier, and taking supplements that will help alleviate symptoms.
Causes
There are many different ways that marijuana can affect the digestive system. One of these is a stomach disorder known as Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). This is an uncommon condition, but it’s becoming more and more common in states with legalized marijuana use. It has been theorized that this could be due to increased potency in cannabis products or because they may contain mycotoxins which produce vomit-inducing effects when consumed.
The good news is there are some treatments for CHS, including hot showers and fluids given through IVs. If you’re suffering from abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or constipation, you should seek medical attention immediately.
The condition has three stages:
- The first stage consists of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
- The second stage is characterized by these same symptoms but more intense as well as some neurological issues such as headache or confusion. This can last for months to years until it finally progresses into the third stage.
- The third stage consists of similar signs, including loss of weight, dehydration, and an inability to eat without vomiting.
Although it’s not fully understood why this happens, there are a few theories about how CHS can be triggered by consuming too much marijuana over an extended period of time. One is that the body becomes tolerant and increases its production of endocannabinoids in order to counteract those produced from smoking weed. Another theory is that the cannabinoids in marijuana alter the body’s natural endocannabinoid levels and thus cause CHS.
Lastly, it’s believed that CHS is caused by the effects of an unhealthy diet. Many who suffer from this condition are known to eat processed foods while not getting enough nutrients or vegetables in their daily diets, which can cause long-term health problems and stomach disorders like CHS.
Symptoms
There are a few symptoms associated with marijuana-related stomach disorders.
The main symptoms are intense abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which usually occurs after consuming marijuana over an extended period of time.
There can also be flu-like symptoms such as headache or muscle aches with the stomach disorder, but these go away when you stop smoking weed for a while, so it’s not always related to CHS.
Cannabis smokers who suffer from CHS often experience a reduction in symptoms after they take hot showers, which have been known to help ease other stomach disorders such as IBS and Crohn’s Disease. They may also feel better by drinking fluids through an IV because it replaces the electrolytes that were lost due to excessive vomiting or nausea.
Prevention
Although it can’t be prevented, there are some steps that you can take to reduce your chances of getting CHS.
First of all, if you’re experiencing nausea or vomiting when smoking weed, then stop immediately and talk to a doctor. It’s also important not to smoke more than the recommended dosage for any marijuana product because this could lead to an increased risk of CHS.
Finally, it’s important not to use high concentrations of THC too frequently because this can increase your chances of developing a stomach disorder like CHS. There are some edibles that contain as much as 90% CBD, which may be better suited to prevent or treat conditions such as nausea and vomiting associated with CHS.
Mycotoxin-induced vomiting syndrome (MIVS) is a condition that results from consuming food or water contaminated with certain types of mold, such as mycotoxins which produce vomit-inducing effects when consumed. Some foods and beverages to be aware of include bread, dried fruits like raisins and peanuts, jerky, and cheese that has been left out for too long.
Solutions
The good news is that while CHS can be a debilitating condition, it doesn’t have to be permanent or even exist at all if you stop smoking weed. Reducing your daily cannabis use will lower your tolerance and decrease the production of these molecules, which can help you ease your symptoms. You should also avoid smoking near bedtime as the discomfort of CHS might make it difficult to sleep, and lack of sleep will only exacerbate your condition more.
A healthier diet is another way that marijuana-related stomach disorders can be alleviated. There are many foods that may cause gastrointestinal issues when eaten in large amounts, but marijuana is unique in that it’s the only food associated with stomach problems. This means that you should start eating more fresh produce, including fruits and vegetables, as well as less processed foods to help reduce your symptoms. You can also take supplements that are high in vitamin B-12 or zinc since these have been shown to improve nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
Conclusion
Marijuana-related stomach disorder is a real condition that can affect those who consume cannabis, especially in large amounts over an extended period of time. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s best to reduce or completely stop smoking weed because the discomfort can last for months or even years until your body eventually returns back to its normal state. In the meantime, you should start eating healthier foods and taking supplements to help with your condition.
